First Team News

Lescott: Palace test no different from Liverpool

Fri 27 Dec 2013, 10:56 AM

Joleon Lescott v Hull A39O2582

Joleon Lescott believes says there will be no stepping off the gas when the Blues take on Crystal Palace on Saturday.

The Eagles may be hovering just above the relegation zone, but Lescott says City must treat each team - no matter where the opposition are in the table - with the same respect and play with same intensity that has preserved the Blues’ proud 100% home record so far.

“It’s all about recovering and going with a positive and professional attitude against Crystal Palace,” said Lescott.

“We are confident but not arrogant. We believe that we can be a match for any team if we apply ourselves in the right way and fortunately we have been doing that at home.

“Make no mistake, Palace will be a very strong test. They’re coming off the back of a great win at Aston Villa. Their form has picked up since Tony Pulis has come in. He’s an experienced and organised manager so we know we’re going to be in for a game.”

Lescott admitted City’s triumph over Liverpool was crucial, even if the Blues weren’t at their best.

The City defender, now just one game short of his 150th appearance for the Club, reflected on the victory, plus the fantastic relationship he has with the supporters.

“It was a very important win,” he said. “Obviously we knew before the game the Arsenal result so it was important that we continue our 100% record at home.

“It was vital to win today, but we know that it is only three points and it’s the same on Saturday so we can’t just think we will beat Crystal Palace because we beat Liverpool - we need to apply the right attitude and go at the game in the same way.

“You want to play against the top teams and the top players and obviously Liverpool and Suarez are both.

“I think we have the hunger and desire there now and I think the form is coming at the right time. Beating the teams we have at home so far this season and the way we’ve done it can only put fear into the opposition.

“When anyone is missing Lescott also was keen to thank the City fans for their continued backing, a relationship that has grown with the supporters over the seasons.

“Yeah I have always felt the warmth from the fans to be fair,” he said. “I feel at home here. They have been great, always supportive of me and I am grateful for that - we have had great times together and I hope that continues.”